Henrietta, the Grey Heron, is making a name for herself in Knysna after she was rescued, had her badly injured foot amputated, rehabilitated and now released.
Knysna, South Africa (18 May 2022) – Henrietta the Heron is growing in fame after her foot was amputated; she was rehabilitated and is now a regular sighting at the Knysna Lagoon, which she calls home.
Henrietta was taken to the Knysna Veterinary Clinic after it was discovered that she had a badly injured foot. She was assessed, and Dr Rolf decided the best course of treatment would be to amputate the foot as it was beyond repair.
Birds can live with only one foot, so the team were sure she would recover well and adapt to life with only one foot. Once the procedure was done, Henrietta was sent to the Tenikwa Wildlife Rehabilitation and Awareness Center. There she recovered well and was slowly introduced to a wilder lifestyle so the team could gauge if she would cope with being back in the wilderness with only one foot.
Henrietta once again did exceedingly well and was deemed fit for release. To keep her life as manageable as possible, the Tenikwa team released her where she was found, at the Knysna Lagoon.
“Henrietta is being monitored by the community and we are all hoping for a successful reintroduction for her” – Tenikwa Wildlife Rehabilitation and Awareness Centre
Her rescuer Alan has spotted her several times since her release, and she has even boarded his boat. The Knysna Veterinary Clinic has advised the public that she may land on a boat or two as she adapts. They urge the public to give her space.
“Henrietta is still learning how to adapt to her situation, so please be careful if she lands on your boat for a visit.” – Knysna Veterinary Clinic
She is becoming famous so if you do see her, wish her well and leave her be. She will eventually settle into the wilderness again. To help her and other wildlife, next time you visit the lagoon or any place in South Africa, pick up any fishing line, ropes, string and plastics you see.
If you make use of these items, be sure to dispose of yours responsibly to avoid injuring wildlife.
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